Why Riders Love the Pike Select+ Suspension Fork

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The RockShox Pike Select+ suspension fork has garnered a significant reputation among mountain bikers for its performance, reliability, and versatility. This guide will provide a detailed overview of the Pike Select+, focusing on its installation, adjustment, maintenance, troubleshooting, optimization, and compatibility with other components. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, this article will serve as a comprehensive resource for understanding why the Pike Select+ is a top choice for many cyclists.

Key Features of the RockShox Pike Select+

The RockShox Pike Select+ is designed for riders seeking a high-performance fork that excels in both cross-country and all-mountain applications. Here are some key features that make the Pike Select+ a standout:

  • DebonAir Spring System: Known for its smooth and consistent feel, the DebonAir system provides a plush, responsive ride with excellent small bump sensitivity.
  • Charger 3 Damper: The new Charger 3 damper offers increased support and responsiveness, improving handling and control on rough terrain.
  • Steerer Tube Options: Available in both tapered and straight steerer tube versions for easy integration with different bike frames.
  • Tool-Free Air Spring Adjustment: Riders can easily adjust the air spring for precise tuning without the need for special tools.
  • Increased Stiffness: The 35mm stanchions deliver a stiffer fork with better handling, offering improved performance on challenging trails.

Tools Required

Before installing or performing maintenance on the Pike Select+, ensure you have the following tools:

  • 8mm Allen wrench [paid link]
  • 5mm Allen wrench [paid link]
  • Torque wrench [paid link]
  • 10mm socket wrench
  • Fork seal grease
  • Suspension fluid (appropriate grade for RockShox)
  • Pump for air spring adjustments
  • T25 Torx wrench [paid link] (if necessary for axle or brake caliper installation)

Installation of the Pike Select+ Suspension Fork

Installing the RockShox Pike Select+ suspension fork is a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow each step carefully to ensure a correct and safe installation.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Remove the Old Fork (if applicable):
    • Begin by removing the front wheel.
    • Use an 8mm Allen wrench to unscrew the fork’s headset and crown bolts, allowing the fork to be removed from the bike frame.
    • Keep the headset bearings and spacers for reinstallation.
  2. Prepare the Pike Select+ Fork:
    • Before installing the Pike Select+, ensure that the correct steerer tube length is chosen. If the fork needs to be cut to fit, measure and cut it using a proper saw designed for bike steerer tubes.
    • Install the fork’s axle and brake mounts according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
  3. Install the Fork into the Frame:
    • Slide the Pike Select+ into the head tube of the bike frame, ensuring that the headset bearings are properly seated.
    • Reinstall any spacers that were previously removed and adjust them to the desired height.
    • Tighten the headset bolts with the correct torque specification using a torque wrench [paid link].
  4. Reinstall the Front Wheel:
    • Once the fork is securely in place, reinstall the front wheel and tighten the axle according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
    • Check for proper wheel alignment and ensure the brake rotor is properly centered within the caliper.
  5. Final Check:
    • Double-check all bolts to ensure they are torqued correctly.
    • Verify that the fork moves smoothly and does not interfere with the brake system or wheel.

Adjusting the Pike Select+ Fork

Once the Pike Select+ is installed, you will need to adjust the air spring and rebound to suit your riding style and terrain.

Air Spring Adjustment

  1. Check the Recommended Air Pressure: RockShox provides a pressure chart based on rider weight. Begin with the recommended starting pressure.
  2. Adjust the Air Pressure: Using a shock pump, adjust the air pressure to your preferred setting. A higher pressure will offer more support for aggressive riding, while a lower pressure provides a plusher feel for smoother rides.
  3. Fine-Tuning: Make small adjustments to the air pressure based on your feedback after test rides. If the fork feels too stiff or too soft, slightly adjust the pressure until you find the optimal setting for your needs.

Rebound Adjustment

  1. Locate the Rebound Dial: The Pike Select+ features a rebound dial at the bottom of the right fork leg.
  2. Turn the Dial: Turning the dial clockwise slows the rebound, while turning it counterclockwise speeds it up. Start with a middle setting and adjust based on how quickly the fork returns after compression.
  3. Test and Fine-Tune: After making initial adjustments, perform test rides to assess whether the fork rebounds too quickly or too slowly. Continue to make minor adjustments until you find the ideal rebound setting.

Maintenance of the Pike Select+ Fork

Proper maintenance is essential for keeping the Pike Select+ performing at its best. Regular care will help prevent premature wear and ensure long-lasting performance.

Cleaning and Lubing

  1. Clean the Fork Stanchions: Regularly wipe the stanchions with a clean rag after each ride to remove dirt and debris. This will help prevent contamination of the seals.
  2. Lubricate the Seals: Use fork seal grease to lubricate the seals, ensuring smooth movement and minimizing friction. This also helps protect the seals from dust and grime.

Oil and Seal Replacement

  1. Fork Disassembly: Every 50 hours of riding or at least once a year, the fork should be serviced. Remove the fork from the bike, disassemble the lowers, and remove the oil from the fork’s lowers and damper.
  2. Replace the Seals: Inspect the seals for wear and replace them if necessary. Reinstall new oil in the lowers and damper, following the manufacturer’s guidelines for oil type and quantity.
  3. Reassembly and Testing: Once the fork is reassembled, check for smooth movement and ensure no air leaks.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Despite the high quality of the Pike Select+, riders may occasionally encounter some issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

Fork Feeling Too Stiff or Too Soft

  • Cause: Incorrect air pressure or rebound setting.
  • Solution: Adjust the air pressure according to your weight and riding style. Fine-tune the rebound setting to ensure proper fork response.

Noisy Fork

  • Cause: Dry seals or contamination in the fork.
  • Solution: Clean and lubricate the seals. If the noise persists, consider replacing the seals.

Poor Performance in Rough Terrain

  • Cause: Insufficient oil or worn-out damper.
  • Solution: Perform a full fork service, including an oil change and damper inspection. Replace any worn-out components.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

For riders looking to get the most out of their Pike Select+, there are several ways to optimize its performance:

  • Upgrade the Damper: Consider upgrading the damper cartridge to a more advanced model like the Charger 2.1 for improved adjustability and control.
  • Adjust the Spring Rate: Fine-tune the spring rate by changing the air volume spacers to suit different types of terrain. More spacers provide a firmer spring rate, while fewer spacers offer a softer, more forgiving ride.
  • Boost Performance with a Custom Tune: Many riders opt for custom tuning by suspension specialists to further refine their Pike Select+ to match their specific needs, whether it’s for aggressive enduro riding or cross-country efficiency.

Compatibility with Other Drivetrain Components

The Pike Select+ is designed to work seamlessly with a variety of drivetrain systems, offering excellent compatibility with both SRAM and Shimano components. Riders should consider their bike’s geometry, axle spacing, and brake system when choosing the correct Pike Select+ model.

  • Axle Compatibility: The Pike Select+ comes with different axle standards, including Boost and non-Boost. Be sure to select the correct version that matches your frame’s specifications.
  • Brake Mount Compatibility: This fork is designed to work with both post-mount and direct-mount brake systems. Ensure the brake caliper fits correctly based on the fork’s brake mount.

Conclusion

The RockShox Pike Select+ suspension fork provides a perfect balance of performance, durability, and adjustability, making it a favorite choice among riders. Its user-friendly features, such as easy air spring adjustments and the highly regarded Charger 3 damper, ensure that riders can fine-tune their ride to suit their preferences. By following the installation, maintenance, and optimization tips outlined in this guide, you can get the most out of your Pike Select+ and enjoy a smooth, responsive ride for years to come.